These 5 former monasteries and convents are now home to some of the most beautiful luxury hotels in the world.
By Sofia Quintero, Assouline
There’s something magical about staying somewhere with a story to tell. These five former monasteries and convents—some dating back to the 13th century—offer exactly that: a chance to experience history while indulging in all the trappings of modern luxury. What makes these conversions special is how they honor their religious past while embracing their new purpose. Original architecture remains intact, centuries-old artwork still adorns the walls, and peaceful gardens continue to flourish. Yet within these historic structures, you’ll now find world-class spas, exceptional restaurants, and elegantly appointed rooms.
For travelers seeking more than just another luxury stay, these reimagined sacred spaces offer something truly different: a connection to the past combined with all the comforts of today’s finest accommodations. They prove that giving new purpose to historic buildings doesn’t diminish their character—it adds another fascinating chapter to their ongoing story.
Botanic Sanctuary: Antwerp, Belgium
The Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp represents a masterful transformation of a 13th-century monastery into one of Europe’s most distinctive luxury hotels. The property’s monastic origins remain visible throughout, with former monastery kitchens transformed into elegant dining spaces and the 19th-century pharmacy reimagined as a modern apothecary. The hotel stands as Belgium’s culinary crown jewel, boasting an unprecedented four Michelin stars.
San Domenico Palace, A Four Seasons Hotel: Taormina, Italy
Famous for being the setting of the second season of the White Lotus, this iconic property seamlessly blends two distinct architectural treasures: the Ancient Convent Wing, constructed on the foundations of a 14th-century religious sanctuary, and the Grand Hotel Wing, an elegant Liberty-style addition from 1896. With meticulously preserved frescoes and authentic convent artifacts, guests can experience a unique atmosphere where the spiritual past and present-day perfectly coexist.
Convento Do Espinheiro: Évora, Portugal
Just outside Lisbon, a 15th-century sanctuary of spirituality has been reborn as a temple to tranquility. Convento do Espinheiro carefully preserves its monastic soul—evident in the centuries-old frescoes and faithful architectural restoration—while embracing its new calling as a luxury retreat. With over 20 acres of meticulously tended gardens and vineyards, this historic property invites guests to find contemplation in unexpected places: perhaps during a vineyard stroll, or maybe beneath vaulted ceilings now sheltering spa treatment rooms.
Monasterio, A Belmond Hotel: Cusco, Peru
This converted monastery—now a protected national monument—offers a sensory immersion into Cusco’s soul. The hotel’s architectural crown jewel is its courtyard, where a 300-year-old cedar tree stands over its jaw dropping gardens. Beyond its walls lie the beautiful colonial buildings and pre-Columbian ruins of Cusco, while traditional markets operate in the shadow of contemporary galleries.
Hôtel Du Couvent: Nice, France
This 17th-century sanctuary has a remarkable story. Built by Clarisses nuns in 1604 and later home to Visitandines until the 1980s, this convent has been meticulously transformed while honoring its soul. The decade-long restoration preserved original elements—lime whitewash, stone, tiles, and wood—under Perseus founder Valéry Grégo’s guidance, with Studio Mumbai, Studio Méditerranée, and Festen Architecture collaborating to keep its authentic character. Today, guests can enjoy its farm to table dining, their Mediterranean-style rooms, the exclusive Roman baths, and over 2.5 acres of private garden.
